Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious weeknight dinner? Look no further! This rice with tofu recipe is perfect for busy individuals and families alike. It's packed with protein and flavor, and it's surprisingly easy to make. This recipe showcases the versatility of tofu, transforming it from a bland ingredient to a star in a flavorful and satisfying meal. Get ready to enjoy a fantastic homemade dish that's both comforting and nutritious!
Ingredients:
- 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 ½ cups cooked brown rice
- ½ cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon ginger, grated
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
- Green onions, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Pressing the tofu is crucial for achieving a crispy texture. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and place a heavy object on top (like books or a cast iron skillet) for at least 15 minutes to remove excess water. Once pressed, cube the tofu into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and broccoli and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
Step 3: Cook the Tofu
Add the cubed tofu to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and slightly crispy.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Stir in the cooked brown rice, vegetable broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the rice with tofu hot, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, if desired. This simple yet satisfying dish is perfect on its own or as a side.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra crispy tofu, you can coat the cubes in cornstarch before sautéing.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to this recipe, such as carrots, mushrooms, or snow peas.
- If you don't have brown rice, you can use white rice instead.
- Adjust the amount of soy sauce and red pepper flakes to your taste.
Variations:
- Spicy Rice with Tofu: Add a tablespoon or two of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Peanut Rice with Tofu: Stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter at the end of cooking for a creamy and nutty flavor.
- Lemon Rice with Tofu: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon at the end of cooking for a bright and tangy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fiber. The exact nutritional values will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. However, you can expect a serving to be relatively low in fat and calories, making it a great choice for those looking for easy healthy meals. For precise nutritional data, utilize a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredient details.
This easy rice with tofu recipe is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas that don’t compromise on flavor or health. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying meal!